Dynasty Suites Hotel sits closest to UCR at under a 3-minute drive. For walkability by the historic center, Hyatt Place Riverside Downtown scores a 9.3 location and sits steps from Mission Inn Avenue. Both deliver on proximity, just for different campus-access styles.
You need a hotel close to UCR. Here are 10 options, ranked by guest scores and sorted by actual distance to campus.
Why Trust This Guide
I analyzed 10 properties near University of California Riverside, cross-referencing 4400+ total verified guest reviews and filtering for an 8.5/10 average guest score to build this focused list.
🎯 Quick Picks: Skip to What You Need
- Closest to UCR: #8 Dynasty Suites Hotel→ Rates
#2 Quality Inn Riverside→ Rates - Top-rated overall: #7 Hampton Inn March AFB→ Rates
- Best for UCR parents: #3 Hyatt Place Riverside Downtown→ Rates
- Best value near campus: #4 Colton Inn→ Rates
#6 Sierra Crossing Motel→ Rates - Most amenities: #1 The Mission Inn Hotel & Spa→ Rates
- Pet-friendly pick: #5 Hampton Inn Convention Center→ Rates
#10 Home2 Suites March AFB→ Rates
Editor’s Note on Booking: We use smart routing to find you the best available rates. Clicking our availability buttons checks live pricing across trusted platforms to ensure you secure your stay.
Quick Compare: Top Places To Stay
| Property | Rating | Book |
|---|---|---|
| 1. The Mission Inn Hotel and Spa | (950+ Reviews) |
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| 2. Quality Inn Riverside near UCR and Downtown | (800+ Reviews) |
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| 3. Hyatt Place Riverside Downtown | (450+ Reviews) |
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| 4. Colton Inn | (450+ Reviews) |
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| 5. Hampton Inn Riverside Downtown Convention Center | (400+ Reviews) |
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| 6. Sierra Crossing Motel | (350+ Reviews) |
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| 7. Hampton Inn Riverside March Air Force Base | (300+ Reviews) |
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| 8. Dynasty Suites Hotel | (200+ Reviews) |
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| 9. Hilton Garden Inn Fontana | (200+ Reviews) |
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| 10. Home2 Suites By Hilton Riverside March AFB | (100+ Reviews) |
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Detailed Reviews: Hotels Near UCR – Full Proximity Breakdown
1. The Mission Inn Hotel and Spa
The Vibe
Riverside’s landmark property, The Mission Inn, sits 2 miles southeast of UCR. The architecture alone is worth the stay — guests rave about the “variety of architecture was fascinating and so beautiful.” Cleanliness scores a solid 9.0, and the location rating of 9.2 confirms you’re central for both campus and downtown.
What You Actually Get
Rooms vary across the sprawling property — request a specific view if you want one, as the hotel “will do our best to accommodate.” There’s room service from 6:30 am to 9:00 pm, a fitness center, and free Wi-Fi (scored 7.7). Heads up: no microwaves in rooms. The outdoor pool is open year-round, but you can’t access it before check-in at 4:00 PM. Parking is available on-site, and the hotel welcomes children of all ages. Pets are not allowed.
Choose this if: You want an iconic Riverside experience with a pool, spa, and walking distance to downtown restaurants.
2. Quality Inn Riverside near UCR and Downtown
The Vibe
This Quality Inn sits on University Avenue — the main road leading straight to UCR. Walk to campus in under 10 minutes or drive in 2. The staff score of 8.3 is the standout, and free breakfast is included. It’s a straightforward, no-fuss option for students, staff, and visiting families.
What You Actually Get
All rooms come with an iron and ironing board (confirmed by staff). Bathrooms have tub showers only. An outdoor swimming pool and fitness center are on-site. Wi-Fi scores a respectable 8.0. Free private parking is available — a plus if you’re driving to campus. A refundable deposit of $100 on card or $200 cash is required at check-in. Guests must be 21 or older to reserve. Children 18+ are charged as adults.
Choose this if: Your priority is walking distance to campus on a tight budget.
Check Tonight’s Price for Quality Inn Riverside near UCR and Downtown →
3. Hyatt Place Riverside Downtown
The Vibe
This Hyatt Place scores 8.9 overall with near-perfect marks across the board: staff (9.3), cleanliness (9.3), comfort (9.3), and location (9.3). It’s a 5-minute drive from UCR and walking distance to everything downtown, including the Historic Mission Inn. Guests consistently call the rooms “clean and spacious.”
What You Actually Get
Single king rooms have walk-in showers; rooms with two queen beds include tubs. No jacuzzi rooms available. An outdoor swimming pool, fitness center, and a restaurant open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner are on-site. Wi-Fi scores 8.5. A refundable $50 deposit is required at check-in. Pets allowed on request with a $75 pet deposit. Children 18+ charged as adults. The breakfast is rated “very good” by guests.
Choose this if: You want a modern, clean base close to UCR with downtown walkability.
4. Colton Inn
The Vibe
Colton Inn is 6 miles from UCR — a quick 10-12 minute drive down the 215. For the price, you’re getting an 8.8 rating, which is exceptional. The value score of 9.1 is the highest in this list. Guests describe it as “convenient and comfortable” with rooms that are “super clean and relaxing.” The air conditioning was already on when one guest arrived on a hot day — small touch, big impact.
What You Actually Get
This is a 2-star property, but don’t let that fool you. Free Wi-Fi scores 8.8, and free on-site parking is included. There’s an outdoor swimming pool. Check-in runs until midnight, giving you flexibility for late arrivals. A deposit is required. Late checkout can be requested at check-in. No pets allowed (service animals welcome). Children of all ages welcome.
Choose this if: You’re driving to UCR and prioritize high-quality stays without the high price tag.
5. Hampton Inn Riverside Downtown Convention Center
The Vibe
Another Market Street option, this Hampton Inn sits right next to the Hyatt Place and shares the same convenient 5-minute drive to UCR. Cleanliness and location both score 9.0. The staff rating of 8.7 confirms friendly, helpful service. One guest noted it was “perfect” for a nearby event and called the staff “super friendly.”
What You Actually Get
This is one of the pet-friendly options near UCR — pets allowed with charges. Rooms are air-conditioned with no windows that open (a patio is available for fresh air). The incidental hold is $30 per night. An outdoor swimming pool and fitness center are on-site. Private parking is available. Breakfast is included and rated “very good.” Children 18+ charged as adults. Group bookings of 10+ rooms have different policies.
Choose this if: You’re bringing a pet to UCR or want a reliable Hampton stay downtown.
Check Tonight’s Price for Hampton Inn Riverside Downtown Convention Center →
6. Sierra Crossing Motel
The Vibe
Sierra Crossing is farther from UCR — a 15-18 minute drive — but it compensates with the highest Wi-Fi score on this list (9.9) and an excellent 8.6 overall rating. Guests praise the “clean, comfortable” newly remodeled rooms. There’s a security guard in the parking lot, which guests appreciate.
What You Actually Get
Free Wi-Fi with a near-perfect 9.9 score. Free private parking on-site. Mountain views from the property. A $30 deposit is required for standard rooms. Check-in has a limited window (3:00-6:00 PM) — plan accordingly. No pets allowed. Children of all ages welcome. This motel has more repeat guests than most properties, a strong loyalty signal.
Choose this if: You need reliable internet for UCR online work and don’t mind a short drive.
7. Hampton Inn Riverside March Air Force Base, Ca
The Vibe
The top-rated property on our list at 9.0 overall, this Hampton Inn sits across from March Air Reserve Base (not on it — you don’t need a special pass). It’s a 12-15 minute drive from UCR. Comfort scores 9.3, staff 9.2, facilities 9.2, and location 9.2. Guests call it “great service, very comfortable” with a location near the National Cemetery and Air Museum.
What You Actually Get
An outdoor swimming pool, fitness center, and very good breakfast are included. Pets are allowed with a non-refundable fee per stay. Parking costs $20 per night overnight. Wi-Fi scores lower here at 6.7, so if internet speed is critical, consider #6 or #8. Children of all ages welcome. No age restriction for check-in. Cancellation policies vary by room type.
Choose this if: You want the best-reviewed stay within a 15-minute drive of UCR.
Check Tonight’s Price for Hampton Inn Riverside March Air Force Base, Ca →
8. Dynasty Suites Hotel
The Vibe
Dynasty Suites is the undisputed champion of proximity — it sits off Interstate 215 within 3 minutes’ drive of UCR. A 10-12 minute walk gets you to campus. Wi-Fi scores an impressive 9.2, and the location scores 8.5. Guests rave about the “classy rooms” and spacious layouts with mini-fridges that also have small freezers. This is the spot for last-minute campus visits or early-morning classes.
What You Actually Get
Rooms come with mini-fridges and microwaves. Wi-Fi is free and fast. Free private parking on-site. No pool or jacuzzi available. Honeymoon jacuzzi room type exists if you book specifically for it. Early check-in is possible with extra charges. Children of all ages welcome. No pets allowed. A $50 damage deposit is required. Guests note the “throw back to an earlier time” vibe — think classic motel charm.
Choose this if: Your main priority is being physically closest to UCR campus.
9. Hilton Garden Inn Fontana
The Vibe
This Hilton Garden Inn in Fontana sits about 15-18 minutes from UCR but offers the highest cleanliness score on this list (9.4) and a perfect Wi-Fi score (10.0). Comfort also scores 9.4. Guests note “nice room, good power outlets and USB, TV with apps was great” and appreciate the “clean, comfortable and safe” environment. Rooms have soaking tubs. This is a solid option if you prefer chain consistency and don’t mind the drive.
What You Actually Get
Completely non-smoking property. On-site dining for breakfast and dinner. Outdoor swimming pool and fitness center. Free parking. Wi-Fi is perfect at 10.0. Rooms come with USB outlets and smart TVs with apps. Pets — the property states only service animals are accepted despite the “pets allowed” flag. Children 18+ charged as adults. Hilton Honors points accepted.
Choose this if: You’re a Hilton loyalist or prioritize cleanliness above all else.
10. Home2 Suites By Hilton Riverside March Air Force Base, Ca
The Vibe
Home2 Suites shares the same Van Buren Blvd location as the Hampton Inn March AFB (#7), about 12-15 minutes from UCR. It’s the extended-stay option with full kitchens (mini-fridge, stove, microwave) and a perfect 10.0 Wi-Fi score. Staff scores 9.2, comfort 9.2, and location 9.3. Breakfast is rated “wonderful” and included. This is the best option for longer UCR visits.
What You Actually Get
Suites with full kitchens — cook your own meals instead of eating out. Free Wi-Fi at 10.0 speeds. Private parking available. Outdoor swimming pool and fitness center. Pets allowed (check website for fees and policies). A $50 damage deposit is required. Early check-in is subject to availability. No romantic setting packages available. Children of all ages welcome. Guests note some hallway odor issues — request a room away from high-traffic areas.
Choose this if: You’re staying near UCR for a week or more and want to cook your own meals.
Check Tonight’s Price for Home2 Suites By Hilton Riverside March Air Force Base, Ca →
Final Verdict: Our Top 3 Picks
🏆 Best Overall
#3 Hyatt Place Riverside Downtown
8.9 rating, 9.3 staff score, 9.3 cleanliness, and a 5-minute drive to UCR with downtown walkability.
💰 Best Value
#4 Colton Inn
8.8 rating with a 9.1 value score at a 2-star price — a 10-minute drive from UCR.
🏠 Closest to UCR
#8 Dynasty Suites Hotel
Under a 3-minute drive or 10-minute walk to campus, with fast Wi-Fi (9.2) and free parking.
How We Ranked These Riverside Hotels
We evaluated 10 properties near University of California Riverside using a weighted methodology focused on proximity, guest scores, and verified policy data. Every hotel was cross-referenced against 4400+ guest reviews to ensure accuracy.
- Guest score thresholds: Only properties with 8.0+ overall and 100+ verified reviews were considered for top rankings
- Score breakdown analysis: Prioritized cleanliness, location, and staff scores — the categories that drive repeat bookings
- Proximity verification: Measured actual drive and walk distances from each hotel to the UCR campus using address data
- Policy accuracy: Verified cancellation, pet, and deposit policies against hotel-provided fine print and guest Q&A
Frequently Asked Questions
Which hotel is closest to UCR campus?
Dynasty Suites Hotel (#8) is the closest — less than 0.5 miles from UCR, a 3-minute drive or about 10-12 minutes on foot. Quality Inn Riverside (#2) on University Avenue is also walkable at about 0.7 miles. For a short drive (5 minutes), Hyatt Place Riverside Downtown (#3) and Hampton Inn Convention Center (#5) are the top picks.
Are pets allowed at any hotels near UCR?
Yes. Hampton Inn Riverside Downtown Convention Center (#5), Hampton Inn March Air Force Base (#7), and Home2 Suites March AFB (#10) all allow pets with charges. The Hilton Garden Inn Fontana (#9) accepts service animals only. Always confirm pet fees directly — Hampton typically charges a one-time non-refundable fee per stay while Home2 Suites has posted rates on their website.
Which hotels near UCR offer free parking?
Several properties include free parking: Quality Inn Riverside (#2), Colton Inn (#4), Dynasty Suites Hotel (#8), and Sierra Crossing Motel (#6) all offer free on-site parking. The Hilton Garden Inn Fontana (#9) also has free parking. Note that Hampton Inn March AFB (#7) charges $20/night for overnight parking, while Hyatt Place (#3) charges for parking at the hotel.
What’s the best hotel for UCR parents visiting students?
Hyatt Place Riverside Downtown (#3) is the top choice for parents — it scores 9.3 for both staff and cleanliness, is a 5-minute drive from UCR, and has a restaurant on-site. For longer stays, Home2 Suites (#10) includes full kitchens. The Mission Inn (#1) offers a more memorable experience with its historic architecture and spa, about 5 minutes from campus by car.
What’s the check-in age requirement at Riverside hotels?
Most hotels near UCR have no age restriction for check-in (Hyatt Place #3, Hampton Inn March AFB #7, Colton Inn #4). However, Quality Inn Riverside (#2) requires guests to be at least 21 years old to reserve a room, and they require a refundable deposit of $100 (credit/debit) or $200 cash. Always carry a valid photo ID regardless of which property you book.
How do I get from Ontario Airport to UCR-area hotels?
LA/Ontario International Airport (ONT) is the closest major airport to UCR at about 14 miles away. Most hotels near UCR are a 15-20 minute drive from ONT via I-215 South. Uber/Lyft typically cost $25-40, and rental cars are available at the airport. The Quality Inn (#2) and Dynasty Suites (#8) are the most convenient first stops after landing.